Catalonia has declared a state of emergency amid the spread of African swine fever. Over the past 12 days, 13 cases of infection have been reported among wild boars in the region, with animal remains found within a six-kilometer radius. Authorities have decided to act swiftly to prevent the virus from spreading beyond the risk zone.
The state of emergency allows the regional government to expedite contracts for the purchase of equipment, medicines, laboratory services, and other essential resources. This applies not only to veterinary drugs but also to equipment, personal protective gear, transport, fuel, electronic devices, drones, cameras, traps, as well as weapons and ammunition for specialists working on-site.
Emergency measures
Temporary accommodation and catering points have been set up for personnel involved in fighting the disease. In addition, services have been arranged for transporting and disposing of dead animals, as well as training for staff participating in outbreak response. In the risk zone, special modules, temporary toilets, alert systems, and signs are being installed to ensure safety and inform the public.
From November 14 to December 14, all recreational, hunting, and forestry activities are prohibited in 91 municipalities of Catalonia. Entry to natural parks, forests, river floodplains, meadows, and agricultural fields outside urban areas is also banned. The only exception is for agricultural work—this is permitted, but vehicles crossing forested areas must undergo mandatory disinfection.
Restrictions and support
Disinfection stations have been set up for residents and businesses in the affected area, and preventive guidelines have been issued. After December 14, some restrictions will be lifted, but in high-risk areas they will remain in place, and group recreational events in less affected zones will continue to be banned.
The Catalan government has allocated 10 million euros in compensation for affected businesses, with the possibility of doubling this amount if needed. Companies facing losses due to these restrictions will have expanded access to credit lines, and a special advisory center has been opened to support businesses directly or indirectly impacted.
Coordination of measures
Several agencies and organizations are involved in the response to the virus outbreak. Executive responsibility for implementing measures has been assigned to the Catalan Water Agency (ACA), the railway company FGC, and the infrastructure organization Infraestructures.cat. All actions are being coordinated with municipalities and the relevant departments to ensure maximum effectiveness and a rapid response.
If you weren’t aware, El Govern is the government of the autonomous community of Catalonia, which holds extensive powers over internal policy, healthcare, and the economy. In situations like these, it can independently declare states of emergency and decide on the allocation of financial aid. El Govern includes various departments responsible for agriculture, infrastructure, healthcare, and other areas, enabling it to respond quickly to region-wide emergencies.
